ARDMORE, Okla. - Chickasaw Nation officials and guests broke ground for a new 9,000 square foot Ardmore area Chickasaw Nation Senior Citizens Center Thursday, May 26, 2011, 2420 Chickasaw Boulevard, Ardmore.
The current Ardmore center opened in 1996, but the needs of the area elders have outgrown the facility.
"This new senior center is a vital part of our efforts to enhance the quality of life of our seniors," said Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby. "It will provide an exceptional environment for elders to enjoy each other's company as they engage in a wide variety of activities."
Planned amenities include a full-service kitchen and a large dining room with a seating capacity of 100. The site also includes a separate computer room, an exercise room and an arts and crafts room. The new facility will also include a covered entrance.
The location for the new center was chosen strategically to provide seniors with easy access to other tribal facilities such as nutrition services, the health clinic and the wellness center.
The Chickasaw Nation currently has 11 senior centers located in Achille, Ada, Ardmore, Connerville, Duncan, Kullihoma, Madill, Pauls Valley, Purcell, Sulphur and Tishomingo.
The tribe opened the original Ardmore senior site in 1988 in the Community Center gymnasium. The current site was dedicated in 1996.
